9 Best Bars in The Basque Country, Navarra, and La Rioja, Spain

Having the the most intriguing natural wine list in town is this postage-stamp bar's claim to fame. Go for the spontaneously fermented oddball varietals; stay for the Argentine-inflected pintxos and ever-rotating vegetable-heavy menu that you can enjoy alfresco. Reservations are a must.

Formerly known as Bebop, this mixed-age, feel-good club—which plays Latin, jazz, and oldies in addition to the usual top 40—recently got a face-lift and is all the better for it.

Dabadaba, tucked away on a side street behind Tabakalera, is San Sebastián's premier nightclub and performance venue, bringing in fan-favorite DJs and frequent live performances. The crowd skews young, and the music is louder than it needs to be, but the vibes are always unpretentious and positive.

Drop by this kitschy bar for live music and Basque comfort food in the evenings; there's usually an impressively smooth band playing rock, blues, or jazz. Lunch on the outdoor picnic tables is wonderful when the weather is nice.

This feel-good dive bar, named for an ancient Basque billy goat deity, is a perfect late-night refuge for music and drinks.

A legendary discoteca, in business for four decades, Bataplán hosts a variety of DJs. Count on high-energy dance music, a young clientele, and enthusiastic imbibing.

Dress up, or you might flunk the bouncer's inspection at this loungy nightclub, filled until dawn with young singles and couples. Cover charge depends on visiting DJs and events, and Fridays are popular student nights.

With its floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking La Concha, Gu is a glitzy indoor--outdoor cocktail bar and nightclub housed in a futuristic building resembling a cruise ship.

This techno haven is one of the most popular dance clubs in town. Cover charge depends on visiting DJs and events; check the website for lineups and prices.